Ruth Ann Johnson

Ruth Ann Johnson, 76, of Batesburg, SC, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024.  Mrs. Johnson was born in Monmouth, IL, and lived in Biggsville, IL until she retired three years ago.  She was a daughter of the late Earl Ravenscraft and Erma McGraw Ravenscraft.  She was married to the late Thomas E. Johnson for 31 years. 

Ruth is remembered affectionately for her constant care and how she served others throughout life.  She was a stay-at-home mom who poured into her kids, husband, and farm for many years eventually transitioning to work outside the home where she ran The Long Branch Tavern in Oquawka, IL for twenty years.  Ruth went on to pursue a career in the medical field and was employed by Klein’s Nursing home in Burlington, IA, as an activities coordinator.  Later Ruth received her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant and worked at Klein’s until she retired at the age of 73. 

Upon retirement she moved to South Carolina where she quickly acclimated to the South and became quite the Southern Lady!   

Ruth loved all things outdoors, one of her favorite activities being boating on the Mississippi River and more recently Lake Murray with her grandsons.  She enjoyed working in the yard and was known by those closest to her for being a bit of a fire bug who may have accidentally started a fire or two at her home in Biggsville throughout the years.  She loved her communities in Biggsville and Batesburg, and her most precious time was always spent with her family. 

She was an active member of Pine Grove Baptist Church and was baptized on December 10, 2023.

Surviving are her children, John Johnson (Steph), Bruce Johnson, Melissa Atkins; six grandchildren; Brandon, Alisa, Jamie, Katlyn, Mason and Miles; and six great grandchildren.  Also surviving are her brother, Harold Ravenscraft; and sister, Phyllis Ishmael.  In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Frankie Hill.  

To meet Ruth, even in passing, was to experience her kind nature and infectious smile.  She will greatly be missed but we are rejoicing that she is with our Lord and Savior.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to our Pine Grove Church family and especially to our Sister in Christ, Kathy Sorensen for all of your love and support. 

We will celebrate Ruth’s life and legacy in both South Carolina and Illinois. 

The first Celebration of life for Mrs. Johnson will be held Thursday, March 14, 2024  at Pine Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Kurt Geib officiating. The family will receive friends at 10:00 am and the service will begin at 11:00 am.

A second service will be held in Oquawka, IL on Saturday, March 30,^, 2024 at 11:00am at Mama’s Place, 1002 North 7^th St, Oquawka, IL with a few words from Rev. Mark Baker. Food and fellowship will follow the service.

Ruth has asked that everyone wear colorful clothing to the services as this is a celebration!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pine Grove Baptist Church, 235 Pine Grove Rd, Leesville, SC, 29070 or the Biggsville Fire Department, 400 Water St, Biggsville, IL 61418